Imphal, May 15: Joining the global effort in fighting AIDS pandemic, the 22nd International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was observed in different parts of the State today in remembrance of those who fell prey to the disease and to demonstrate support for those living with the killer virus.

Manipur Network of Positive People (MNP+), Imphal organised a special memorial service in the spirit of this year�s theme �Turning Remembrance Into Action� at MDU hall, Yaiskul Police Lane today.

Project Director of Manipur AIDS Control Society (MACS) G Binodkumar Sharma was the chief guest, MNP+ Board member L Deben Singh president with AMUCO advisor Dr Dhanabir Laishram and Deputy Director (Intervention) of MACS Dr Pramod Kumar as the guests of honour.

Giving the key note address, MNP+ Board member Kh Gyaneshor mentioned that the day is being observed all over the world on every third Sunday of May as part of the year-long International AIDS Candle Memorial Campaign, a programme of the Global Health Council with the main objective of encouraging community and individuals around the world to get involved in HIV/AIDS prevention activities.

On the relevance of the theme, which is being adopted for the second time, Gyaneshor said the goal is to encourage communities to incorporate advocacy activities that extend beyond the official candlelight event.

It is an opportunity to discuss the impact of HIV/AIDS within the community as well as how each community could address issues including prevention, care, treatment, stigma and education of the disease, he added.

Speaking as chief guest, Dr Binodkumar expressed grave concern over the spread of the killer virus among the general populace.

He noted that Manipur is one of the six States in the country which has the largest number of HIV/AIDS infected people and have the highest prevalence rate.

Although 75 percent of the HIV/AIDS infected people are Intravenous Drug Users during 1997-98, now the disease has spread among the general population, especially, women and children, he pointed out while appealing to the people for well-coordinated effort in preventing the spread of the killer virus.

He assured that problems of lack of adequate ART drugs at RIMS and JN Hospital centres would not recur.

A proposal has been submitted to NACO to look in this aspect and treatment of HIV/AIDS patients in the two centres have been started on full swing once again, he informed.

Besides offering floral tribute and homage to those who have died of HIV/AIDS by lighting candles, a group of young children who are living with the killer virus presented devotional songs at the occasion.

Two HIV/AIDS patients also shared their experience with the gathering.

It may be noted here that the first International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was held in 1983 when the cause of AIDS was unknown and no more than a few thousands AIDS death had been recorded.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, globally, AIDS has claimed more than 28 million lives with over 42 million now living with HIV/AIDS.

The total number of HIV positive cases, in Manipur, upto Feb 2005 was 19,536, out of which 3670 were female.

The Care Foundation, Dedicated People's Union and ESEWOSSA also joined the observance with solemn programmes at Nambol Bazar, Moirang Lamkhai and Kumbi Bazar where people from all walks of life converged to reiterate pledges in reducing the threat from the dreaded disease through intensive awareness campaign and solidarity to the people suffering from HIV/AIDS.

Speakers at the observances emphasised on need for the general public to contribute their mite in containing the pandemic especially by showing compassion and empathy towards those still living with the virus.

Candles were also lit at the observance sites as mark of respect to those unfortunate ones who succumbed due to HIV/AIDS infections.

At the Nambol observation site families and friends including widows and orphans offered prayers for their loved ones as well as longevity of those still alive but infected with the disease.

A spot quiz competition was also organised at Ibudhou Khoriphaba Haraoba focused on drug abuse and HIV/AIDS.

The day was also observed by NGO Network Moreh at Moreh and the Kripa Society, Lalambung Makhong its office today.

Divine Light Drug De-Addiction cum Rehabilitation Centre, Langthabal Kunja of Galaxy centre also observed the day by observing two minutes silence as part of respect to AIDS victims by the inmates, their family members and staff.

Lions Club, Imphal and New Generation, RIMS Road also observed the day and at GM Hall, Imphal by organising a State level debating competition at degree level.

In the competition for individual event, Meitankisangbam Subashini Devi of LMS Law College, Imphal secured the 1st position; Ningthoujam Ajit Singh of DM College of Art secured the 2nd position and Kiyam Rina Devi of LMS Law College secured the 3rd position.

They won Rs 3000, Rs 2000 and Rs 1000 respectively as prizes.

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